Transport cleaning device

ABSTRACT

A device for removing waste from a surface includes a housing, first and second agitators rotateably attached to the housing, each having an arcuate surface area and rotation in opposite direction. A third agitator is located between the first and second agitators, the third agitator having an arcuate surface area and a counterclockwise rotation. The first agitator transports waste to the second agitator which in conjunction with the third agitator projects debris into a waste container. A method of using the device to remove debris from a surface is also described.

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

This application is a continuation-in-part of United StatesNonprovisional Application No. 11/126,419 filed on May 11, 2005, whichclaims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/569,966 filed onMay 11, 2004.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a device for cleaning various surfacesand, in particular, relates to a cleaning device having three alignedcylindrical agitators which can be manually driven, moved, or selfpropelled over variously leveled hard or soft surfaces to collect wasteparticles, liquids and/or chemical cleaning products.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Cleaning floors and other pedestrian surfaces is well known. In recentyears, cleaning pedestrian surfaces has become a complex combination ofmaking certain such surfaces are clean and doing so in the mostexpeditious manner. The cost of labor has placed a premium on thedevelopment of both new cleaning processes and chemicals, as well as onmachines that clean in one rather than multiple passes.

Many devices have been developed for removing soil and debris or liquidsfrom vertical and horizontal surfaces. Typically, cleaning devicesemploy rotating brushes in combination with suction for the collectionof waste, such as with a vacuum cleaner. Other devices utilize brusheshaving bristled bodies that are swivelably mounted on a member forsweeping. Street sweepers, for example, are commonly provided with anintake broom and suction carriage that collect and transmit thesuctioned waste to a hopper. A few devices use belts or drums as atransport tool to remove and collect waste. However, such devices tendto be susceptible to abrasion and wear, work on limited types ofsurfaces, and have compromised efficiencies. Some of these devices arecapable of applying and removing cleaning solutions along with soilsfrom a carpet or hard surface to accomplish chemical cleaning.

For commercial and large public floors, some of the most common highefficiency cleaning machines incorporate the use of one or twocylindrical brushes which are mounted to rotate at high revolutions perminute to lift and deposit the debris in removable containers. Thesenewer devices operate on hard surfaces such as concrete, wood, marble,and tile, as well as softer surfaces such as mats and carpeting ofvarious pile depths and stiffness. Some of these prior art cleaningmachines, utilizing one or two cylindrical rotating brushes, work withdry cleaning chemicals by agitating the chemicals into and out of thecarpet or surface and into a hopper for disposal. Others utilize liquidcleaning tanks to dispense cleaning agents on the surface either by asprayer or through the rotating brushes themselves. A vacuum is oftenrequired on prior art machines to affect removal of cleaning agents andsoils.

OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

While many of these known cleaning machines are adequate for smallcommercial applications, they do not provide the efficiencies andcleaning capabilities to adequately handle large commercial spaces andpublic facilities. Accordingly, in an example it is an object of thepresent invention to provide a cleaning device that is useful oncarpeting as well as other types of surfaces and applications to provideincreased efficiencies and cleaning capabilities.

It is a further object in an embodiment of the invention to provide acleaning device that can provide reduced cleaning costs for largecommercial floors and public pedestrian ways and buildings.

It is another object in an embodiment of the invention to provide acleaning device that can remove soil and debris from a surface quickly.

It is another object in an embodiment of the invention to provide acleaning device that has at least one agitator that may also work topropel the device along the surface to be cleaned.

It is yet a further object in an embodiment of the invention to providea rotating agitator system that efficiently and effectively collectswaste from any type of indoor or outdoor surface, or any vertical,horizontal, or sloped surface, without the need for a vacuum or othermechanical belt means to remove the debris from the surface beingcleaned.

It is yet another object in an embodiment of the invention to provide animproved cleaning device that utilizes a rotating arcuate surface areato collect and remove waste from surfaces having irregularities, such astexture.

It is yet another object in an embodiment of the invention to provide acleaning device having a waste container that is easy to handle andreplaceable, unlike prior art devices that use vacuum cleaner bags thatcan be a challenge to attach and require frequent replacement.

The present invention is directed to a device for removing soils ordebris from a surface, comprising a housing and first and secondagitators attached thereto. First agitator has a contact surface areafor contact with the surface to be cleaned. The second agitator has anarcuate contact surface area for contact with the surface to be cleaned.The second agitator has a second direction of rotation. In an example,first and second agitators rotate towards each other to direct debrisinward to where it can be removed from the surface to be cleaned. In anexample, the first agitator has a counterclockwise rotation and thesecond agitator has a clockwise rotation, as shown in the figures. Theinvention further comprises a third agitator that is interposed betweenthe first and second agitators and rotates in the opposite direction asthe second agitator. Preferably, the third agitator is more proximate tothe second agitator. The third agitator has an arcuate surface contactarea and a diameter that is preferably smaller than the diameter ofeither the first or second agitators.

In the present invention, the first agitator transports debris to thesecond agitator, and the second agitator, in conjunction with the thirdagitator, transports the debris away from the surface. Preferably, it istransported into a hopper or waste container. The employment of thethird agitator provides unique advantages in the efficiency of thedevice, both in the removal of soil and debris from the surface to becleaned, as well as the required number of passes over such debris, toreduce the time required to clean a surface. Additionally, the thirdagitator may also work to assist in propelling the device along thesurface to be cleaned.

Transport wheels or a lift mechanism may be used alone or in combinationto support or transport the device when not in use. Transport wheelsand/or lift mechanism may be adjustably retractable to permit raisingand lowering the agitators from and to the surface to be cleaned. Atleast one set of transport wheels may optionally be stationary. Theagitators substantially support the device when the transport wheelsand/or lift mechanism are retracted. When fully extended for transportor storage, the wheels and/or lift mechanism substantially support theweight of the device. In an embodiment, the transport wheels and/or liftmechanism are adjusted to a midpoint so that the transport wheels and/orlift mechanism and the agitators carry the weight of the devicetogether.

The device can be used to clean a variety of surfaces, both indoor andoutdoor, and horizontal, vertical, or sloped. For example, the devicemay be used to clean floors, floor surfaces of a variety of materials,walls, carpet, brick, stone, grouted tile, wood, tile, vinyl, rubber,concrete, pavement, or asphalt surfaces, or a combination thereof, aswell as such surfaces as escalators and conveyor belts.

The present invention represents a substantial advance over prior artcleaning devices by providing a unique means for removing andtransporting soil and debris from the surface to be cleaned, wherein theremoval and transport means are substantially more efficient andeffective than conventional two-brush cleaning machines of the priorart. Further benefits from the invention entail not only the removal oftypical cleaning solutions and soils, but also large and small wasteitems such as papers, washers, nails, sand, and cigarette ashes from thesurface. The removal is substantially continuous without repetitivemotion on both flat and irregular surfaces such as bricks, slate and thelike.

Those and other details, objects, and advantages of the presentinvention will become better understood or apparent from the followingdescription and drawings showing embodiments thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DETAILED DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings illustrate examples of embodiments of theinvention. In such drawings:

FIG. 1 shows a cutaway of a side view of an example of an embodiment ofthe present invention with the transport wheels in a retracted positionfor cleaning a surface.

FIG. 2 shows a cutaway of a side view of an example of an embodiment ofthe present invention with the transport wheels fully extended fortransport or storage.

FIG. 3 shows a cutaway of a side view of an example of an embodiment ofthe present invention as configured in combination with a wastecontainer, showing the lid to the waste container in the closed positionand capable of being opened.

FIG. 4A shows a schematic of an example of an embodiment of the outsideof the drive means of the present invention; FIG. 4B shows a schematicof an example of an inside of the drive means; FIG. 4C shows across-sectional view of the example shown in FIG. 4B and cut along line4-4; and FIG. 4D shows a perspective view of the gear box plate withgears and pulleys mounted thereto.

FIG. 5 shows a cutaway of a side view of an example of an embodiment ofthe present invention as configured in combination with a wastecontainer having a mouth for use in combination with suction.

FIG. 6 shows a cutaway of a side view of an example of an embodiment ofthe present invention as configured in combination with a wastecontainer having a mouth connected to a vacuum hose.

FIG. 7 shows a cutaway of a side view of an example of an embodiment ofthe present invention as configured in combination with a filter bag.

FIG. 8 shows a bottom view of an embodiment of an example of the presentinvention.

FIG. 9 shows a top view of an embodiment of an example of the presentinvention.

FIG. 10 shows a side view of an embodiment of an example of the presentinvention as configured in combination with a waste container.

FIG. 11 shows a side view of an example of an embodiment of the presentinvention as configured in combination with a waste container having amouth.

FIGS. 12A-12C show side views of examples of an embodiment of theinvention with the lift mechanism in the fully extended, intermediate,and fully retracted positions, respectively.

FIG. 13 shows an inside perspective view of an example of the presentinvention, showing examples of the shroud and cooling fan.

FIGS. 14A-14B show perspective views of examples of the claimedinvention further comprising an adjustable handle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES OF THE INVENTION

FIGS. 1 and 2 show cutaway side views of embodiments of the presentinvention. As shown in the figures, and referring particularly to FIGS.1 and 2, there is a housing 20 to which first, second, and thirdcylindrical agitators 1, 2, 3 are rotatably attached. In an example,housing 20 is equipped with an opening or the like for positioning acooling fan 38 therein. See FIGS. 12, 13. Although the figures show theagitators 1, 2, 3 as being bristled-brushes, it should be appreciatedthat the drawings are not intended to be limiting and that the presentinvention may use any sort of agitator suitable for cleaning surfaces.Agitators include those that agitate and those that do not, includingbrushes, bristled-rollers such as conventional bristled-rollers,rollers, rollers with recesses or indentations, rollers withprojections, and/or combinations thereof. Each agitator 1, 2, 3 has anarcuate contact surface area for contact with the surface to be cleaned.The third agitator 3 is preferably interposed between the first andsecond agitators 1, 2. Preferably, third agitator 3 is positioned insubstantially closer proximity to second agitator 2 than to firstagitator 1. Preferably, second and third agitators 2, 3 are positionedin a substantially close proximity to each other in order to improverecovery of soil, debris, cleaning compounds, and the like, and morepreferably, second agitator 2 is positioned substantially near wastecontainer 7, described below. In examples, second and third agitatorssubstantially touch or nearly touch, although the agitators 2, 3 may bepositioned with a distance between them that is up to 20% of thediameter of first agitator 1. In an example, the diameter of the thirdagitator 3 is smaller than the diameter of either first or secondagitator 1, 2. In alternate examples the diameter of third agitator 3may be the same as or larger than the diameter of first and secondagitators 1, 2. In an example, first and third agitators 1, 3 rotate inthe same direction and opposite to that of second agitator 2, andpreferably, the first and third agitators 1, 3 have a counterclockwiserotation and the second agitator 2 has a clockwise rotation as shown inFIG. 1.

In a preferred example, the agitators 1, 2, 3 are cylindrical brusheshaving an arcuate surface area for contact with the surface to becleaned 100, the arcuate surface area comprising cleaning bristles. Thebrushes can be configured with cleaning bristles of conventional sizeand shape for the desired application. Selection of bristles can bedifferent for each of the three brushes. Bristles are arranged forappropriate lifting and transportation of debris from the surface to becleaned 100 to the collection means or waste container 7, describedbelow, and thus eliminate the need for a suction or vacuum device toremove debris from the surface. In another embodiment, the agitators 1,2, 3 are cylindrical rollers having a plurality of either spaced apartrecesses or projections. Cylindrical rollers having a plurality ofspaced apart recesses are defined and described in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/249,671, filed Oct. 13, 2005. In anotherembodiment, the agitators may be bristled-rollers, such as, for example,conventional bristled-rollers. In yet another embodiment, the agitators1, 2, 3 may be a combination of cylindrical brushes and rollers. Forexample, first and second agitators 1, 2 may be rollers and thirdagitator 3 may be a brush, or first agitator 1 may be a roller andsecond and third agitators 2, 3 may be brushes, or any other permutationthereof suitable for the type and area of the surface to be cleaned.

In the example shown in FIG. 1, the claimed device further comprisestransport wheels 11, 12 which are shown in a retracted position forcleaning a surface 100. As is shown in FIG. 1, and as described in moredetail below, when the transport wheels are elevated off of surface 100,the rotating arcuate surfaces of first, second, and third agitators 1,2, 3 contact the surface 100 and transport debris from the surface 100into waste container 7. It should be noted, however, that the device isnot limited to use with a waste container. In FIG. 2, the transportwheels 11, 12 are shown in the fully extended position, with the wheelsresting on the surface 100 for transportation and storage of thecleaning device. In an example, a lift mechanism 40 such as the oneshown in FIGS. 12A-12C and described in more detail below is used inplace of or in combination with transport wheels 11, 12.

In an example of an embodiment, a drive means is mounted on housing 20and a power source 4 is enclosed within housing 20. For example, thepower source 4 may be an electric motor, an engine, or a drive shaft,preferably flexible. In another embodiment, the power source 4 isremote, for example, a vehicle. Power source 4 is operably connected todrive means 5 through a transmission or reduction gears. Referringparticularly to the example shown in FIG. 4B, drive means 5 includes apair of drive gears 21 and 22 and an idler gear 29 mounted to housing20. Gears 21, 22, 29 are mounted in gear box plate 30 within drive means5. Gears 22 and 29 engage power source 4. FIG. 4A shows a schematic ofan outside of drive means 5 showing how pulleys 26, 27, 28 are driven bythe pulleys 21P, 22P within drive means 5. As shown, preferably thedrive pulleys are adapted to engage drive belts 23 and 24, respectively.Drive belt 23 is entrained around pulleys 26P and 28P which arerespectively connected to first and third agitators 1, 3. Drive belt 24is entrained around pulley 27P which is operably connected to secondagitator 2. FIG. 4B shows a schematic of an inside of drive meansshowing how gears 21, 22, 29 are mounted in gear box plate 30. As shownin FIG. 4B, power source engages gear 22 and idler gear 29. Idler gear29 serves to reverse the direction of gear 21. FIG. 4C is across-sectional view of an example of an embodiment of the claimedinvention shown in FIG. 4B and cut along line 4-4 showing therelationship between gears and pulleys. FIG. 4D shows a perspective viewof the outside of drive means 5, showing pulleys 21P, 22P mounted onoutside of gear box plate 30.

In an example of operation, and as depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, firstagitator 1 is rotated in a counterclockwise direction by transmissionand power source 4 and drive belt 23. The invention is contemplated foruse with or without chemical cleaning agents. A dispenser 37 isoptionally mounted on housing 20. Dispenser 37 may dispense dry orliquid cleaning chemicals onto surface 100. In an example of use,rotation of first agitator 1 scrubs chemicals into the surface beingcleaned 100 and transports particles, liquids, wastes, or cleaningpowders or solutions to third agitator 3, which functions as a centraltransporter, while third agitator 3 operates in conjunction with secondagitator 2 to transport the waste or debris in a generally upwarddirection away from the surface 100. Optionally waste or debris isdirected into waste container 7, although, as described in more detailbelow, waste container 7 is not an essential component of the presentinvention. An example of the flow of debris through the agitators isshown in FIG. 1.

Either the first or second agitator 1, 2 can lead in first or seconddirections 50 a, 50 b, respectively, making the device bidirectional inoperation as shown in FIG. 1. Preferably, first agitator 1 is the leadagitator. Additionally, in use, rotation of third agitator 3 may help topropel the device along the surface to be cleaned. In a preferredexample, the speed of third agitator 3 ranges from 3% to 20% faster thanthat of first and second agitators 1, 2, and most preferably is morethan 10% faster. For example, first and second agitators 1, 2 rotate atspeeds of about 1.5 meters per second to about 5.5 meters per second,while third agitator 3 rotates at a speed of about 1.7 meters per secondto about 7 meters per second. In this example, meters per second ismeasured from a point on the circumference of the agitator's surface.

In another example, the speed of third agitator 3 is more than 20%faster than that of first and second agitators 1, 2, and, in yet anotherexample, the speed of third agitator 3 is substantially faster than thatof first and second agitators 1, 2.

In alternate examples, all agitators rotate at a substantially equalspeed. In yet another example, third agitator 3 rotates at a speed thatranges from slightly slower than to substantially slower than that offirst and second agitators 1, 2. In still another example, at least oneof agitators 1, 2, 3 is substantially not rotating.

The skilled artisan will appreciate that the speeds of rotation ofagitators 1, 2, 3 are determined by at least the intended application,the size of the cleaning machine, and the risk of damage to the surfacebeing cleaned 100. For example, when the device is used to polish asurface, at least of one of agitators 1, 2, 3 may rotate at especiallyhigh speeds. Additionally, in production, the device will be fitted withagitators that are of an appropriate diameter for the intended uses ofthe device. For an example, in production, a machine intended for use toclean a surface such as a street will be fitted with agitators that areadapted to rotate much more slowly than those devices fitted into amachine intended for use to clean a surface such as a wall or an indoorfloor covered with carpet.

In an alternate example (not shown), device comprises a housing 20 and afirst agitator 1 mounted on the housing, wherein first agitator 1 is atleast one rotary agitator. In an example, first agitator 1 comprises tworotary agitators that rotate in opposing directions. There is a secondcylindrical agitator 2 rotatably mounted on the housing 20 that has anarcuate surface area as described above. There is a third cylindricalagitator 3 rotatably mounted on the housing 20 that is interposedbetween first and second agitators 1, 2. The third agitator 3 has anarcuate surface area. As described above, second and third agitators 2,3 rotate in opposing directions. Preferably, second and third agitators2, 3 are positioned in a substantially close proximity to each other.Proximal positioning of second and third agitators 2, 3 improvesrecovery of soil, debris, cleaning compounds, and the like. Preferably,second agitator 2 is positioned substantially near waste container 7.

In an example, first, second, and third shrouds 31, 32, 33 arepositioned substantially above first, second, and third agitators 1, 2,3, respectively, such that arcuate surfaces of agitators 1, 2, 3 do notcome into contact with shrouds 31, 32, 33. Such an arrangement may beused, for example, where agitators 1, 2, 3 are cylindrical rollerswithout bristled brushes, such as those described above. In anotherexample, first, second, and third shrouds 31, 32, 33 are positionedsubstantially near to first, second, and third agitators 1, 2, 3,respectively, such that arcuate surface of agitators 1, 2, 3, come intocontact with shrouds 31, 32, 33. Such an arrangement may be used, forexample, where agitators 1, 2, 3, are bristled-rollers such as thosedescribed above.

In the examples shown in the figures, first, second, and third shrouds31, 32, 33 are unitary with each other, each shroud having an arcuaterecess positioned substantially above one of agitators 1, 2, 3. In otherexamples, shrouds 31, 32, 33 are separate pieces (not shown). In use,first and third arcuate shrouds 31, 33 prevent a buildup of debris on asurface of housing 20 as debris is removed from the surface beingcleaned 100. First arcuate shroud 31 may also protect the user of thecleaning device and/or first agitator 1 from injury or damage. Inexamples comprising waste container 7, second arcuate shroud 32 directsdebris from the surface being cleaned 100 into waste container 7. SeeFIG. 1. In an example, a first end 31 a of first shroud 31 extends orprotrudes beyond first agitator 1 and bends back over shroud 31 at anangle of greater than about 90°, such as is shown in FIG. 13. As shownin FIG. 6, and as depicted by angle “b,” in an example, shroud 31 ispositioned with a portion measuring substantially above first agitator 1and encompasses about 90° to 120° of the arcuate surface of agitator 1extending counterclockwise from the junction between first and thirdshrouds 31, 33. Third arcuate shroud 33 is positioned substantiallyabove third agitator 3, the recess of arcuate shroud 33 beingsubstantially centered above third agitator 3. Arcuate shroud 33encompasses approximately 50 to 120° of the arcuate surface on thirdagitator 3 opposite its contact area. As shown by angle “c” in FIG. 6,third arcuate shroud 33 encompasses about 100° of the arcuate surface onthird agitator 3 opposite its contact area. Shroud 33 also directs thedebris to the floor in front of third agitator 3. Second arcuate shroud32 encompasses approximately 75 to 90° of the arcuate surface on secondagitator 2 opposite its contact area, as shown by angle “d” in FIG. 6.As shown, second arcuate shroud 32 extends from the end of shroud 33 towaste container 7.

At an end of shroud 32 is an opening or entrance mouth 10 that may leadto waste container 7, described below. In an example, lid 10 a, asdepicted in FIG. 3, may be opened or closed as desired by the user.Preferably, lid 10 a and first arcuate shroud 31 abut each other. In anexample, lid 10 a is fitted with a rubber hinge or the like to preventsoil and debris from escaping waste container 7. Cleaning powder orsolution can also be agitated onto or into the fibers of the surfacebeing cleaned 100 by agitators 1, 2, 3 and be recycled on the surfacebeing cleaned when lid 10 a is closed. In another example, the lid 10 amay remain open during operation without the prior or simultaneous useof cleaning chemicals. In this example, soil and debris will becollected in waste container 7, in a pattern similar to that shown inFIG. 1. Although shown as being pivotally attached to an end of shroud32 as shown in FIG. 3, in an alternate embodiment, lid 10 a may bepivotally attached to waste container 7.

As shown in FIG. 5, opening 10 has an angle “a” that ranges from about15° counterclockwise from the vertical center of second agitator 2 toabout 90° clockwise from the vertical center of second agitator 2. Lid10 a opens or closes to allow or prevent waste and other particles orliquids from entering waste container 7. When lid 10 a is in a closedposition nothing will be taken off of the surface and waste will simplycirculate through the agitators 1, 2, 3 and be redeposited on thesurface.

Preferably, second agitator 2 is positioned in substantially closeproximity to waste container 7, with a distance between the rotatingarcuate surface of second agitator 2 and opening 10 of waste container 7not exceeding about 2-10% of the diameter of second agitator 2,preferably not exceeding about 5% of the diameter of second agitator 2.

Waste container 7 can be removably hooked on or snapped onto housing 20or more permanently affixed. Preferably, waste container 7 is locatedbetween housing 20 and transport wheels 11, described below. In apreferred embodiment, waste container 7 does not protrude beyond wheels11. In an alternate embodiment, waste container 7 may protrude beyondwheels 11. An embodiment of the invention in combination with wastecontainer 7 is shown in FIGS. 1-3 and 10. Optionally, waste container 7may be fitted with a grip 56 for easy removal and attachment of wastecontainer 7 to housing 20, as shown in FIG. 9.

An example of the device is shown in FIGS. 5 and 11. Although notrequired, claimed invention may optionally be attached to a suction,such as to a vacuum, in order to suction debris being removed by actionof the three agitators from surface to be cleaned 100. As shown in FIGS.5 and 11, a mouth 9 that may be connected to suction is optionallyincluded on waste container 7. As an example, FIG. 6 shows a hose 8 orother removal means attached to mouth 9 so that debris may be suctionedout of waste container 7, such as by a vacuum. Yet another example ofthe device is shown in FIG. 7, in which a filter bag 35 is used with orin place of waste container 7. Filter bag 35 may be made of a materialsuch as textile screen, although those skilled in the art will recognizethat the filter bag may be made from any suitable material. Filter bag35 may be used to collect dry waste, such as dust, dry cleaning powder,fluff, carpet fiber, sand, and/or metal chips. A special vacuum-nozzle,not shown, can be fitted to conjoin with a vacuum cleaner. It includes aseparate machine, or is attached or detachably affixed onto housing 20.

Optionally, transport wheels 11, 12 can be used to support or transportthe machine. In an example, transport wheels 11, 12 are wheel sets, asshown in FIG. 8. In an example, wheel set 11 is adjustably retractableand wheel set 12 is fixed or stationary to permit raising and loweringthe agitators 1, 2, 3 from and to the surface to be cleaned 100. Inanother example, wheel sets 11, 12 are both adjustably retractable. In apreferred example, wheel set 11 is preferably retracted by adjusting themain handle 6 (partially shown in FIG. 2), or by some other means suchas by spring adjusters, a lever, or spindle actuation. The adjustmentmeans may be, for example, manual, electric, or hydraulic, but theskilled artisan will realize that the adjustment means may be operatedby any suitable means. In an example, at least one of wheel sets 11, 12may be retracted so the agitators 1, 2, 3 carry the device and areplaced into a working position, as shown in FIG. 1, or the wheel sets11, 12 may be fully extended to contact the surface so they support theweight of the device during transport, as shown in FIG. 2.Alternatively, at least one of the wheel sets 11, 12 may be adjusted toa mid-point (not shown) so that the wheel sets 11, 12 carry some portionof the device's weight. In addition, first agitator 1 may provide somesupport for the weight of the device. In other examples, transportwheels 11, 12 can be legs, where legs may include pads, platforms,rubber bumpers, at least one kickstand, or any other support means forsupporting the device. In an embodiment, legs can be retractable, asdescribed above.

In an example shown in FIG. 12, the claimed invention further comprisesa retractable lift mechanism 40. Lift mechanism 40 may be used alone orin combination with transport wheels 11, 12. In an example where liftmechanism 40 is used alone, device may be transported by a secondarymeans, such as a trolley or a dolly, for example. In the examples shownin FIG. 12, lift mechanism 40 is shown in combination with wheel set 12.As described above, wheel set 12 may retract and extend, or it may befixed or stationary. As shown in the example depicted in FIG. 12, aslift mechanism 40 is extended or retracted, wheel set 12 also extends orretracts. Lift mechanism 40 functions independent of agitators 1, 2, 3,and supports the claimed device and/or keeps agitators 1, 2, 3 off ofthe surface to be cleaned 100 when fully extended, such as when thedevice is in the stationary and/or off position. When the machine isstarted, the lift mechanism 40 is retracted so that agitators 1, 2, 3are lowered to come into contact with the surface to be cleaned 100. Inan example, the lift mechanism 40 comprises at least two retractablesupport bars 41, one on each side of the cleaning device. In use, eachsupport bar 41 is positioned substantially parallel to the horizontalplane of the surface to be cleaned. The lift mechanism 40 may beoperably connected to the handle 6 such that a mechanism, switch, orlever on the handle controls the retraction and extension of the liftmechanism 40 as described above in relation to retractable wheels 11,12. In the fully extended position, an example of which is shown in FIG.12A, the support bars 41 are positioned on the surface to be cleaned 100and the agitators 1, 2, 3 (not shown in FIG. 12A) of the carpet cleaningmachine are suspended above the surface 100. Lift mechanism 40 may alsobe positioned intermediately between the fully extended and fullyretracted positions, as shown in the example depicted in FIG. 12B. Wherelift mechanism 40 is intermediately positioned, agitators 1, 2, 3 (notshown in FIG. 12B) are positioned on surface 100 so that agitators 1, 2,3 and lift mechanism 40 both support device. In the fully retractedposition, an example of which is shown in FIG. 12C, the support bars 41are flush against the bottom of the machine and the agitators 1, 2, 3(not shown in FIG. 12C) are positioned on the surface to be cleaned 100.The adjustability of wheel sets 11, 12 and/or lift mechanism 40accommodates the particular dynamics of a surface, enabling the deviceto accommodate varying surface terrains and to collect enlarged orirregular waste by altering the distance between the agitators 1, 2, 3and the surface 100. The adjustment of the wheel sets 11, 12 and/or liftmechanism 40 can elevate the device and lift the agitators from thesurface or ensure a constant or uniform clearance between the agitatorsand the cleaned surface 100. The adjustability of wheel sets and/or liftmechanism 40 protects the surfaces to be cleaned and the agitators anddrive mechanism by enabling the device to account for variations in thesurface.

In an example, device is fitted with an adjustable handle 6 such as theone shown in FIGS. 14A-B that is capable of being adjusted to a varietyof heights. Optionally, a foot pedal controls the adjustment of thehandle (not shown). FIG. 14A shows a back view of a schematic of theclaimed invention further comprising an adjustable handle 6 in theextended position. FIG. 14B shows a front view of the present inventionfurther comprising the adjustable handle 6 in the retracted position. Inthe examples shown in FIG. 14, the adjustable handle 6 is a loop handlecomprised of a pair of telescoping members 61, each member 61 comprisingtwo lengths of telescoping tubing 61 a, 61 b. A grip member is 64mounted on the first end 61 a′ of each telescoping member and ispositioned therebetween. Telescoping members 61 retract and extend sothat handle 6 is adjustable to a variety of heights, such as for exampleto accommodate varying heights between operators of the claimed machine.In the example shown, second end 61 b′ of each telescoping member 61 ismounted to a cross-bar 67. At least one of lengths of telescoping tubing61 a, 61 b may optionally be equipped with a cable holder 68 to hold orstore cables and the like on the handle 6 and to make for easy storageand/or to keep them off of surface to be cleaned 100 so that they don'tinterfere with operation of the claimed device.

Optionally, cleaning device further comprises a tank 69, as shown inFIG. 14B, for holding cleaning solutions or other materials removablymounted to handle 6. Preferably tank 69 further comprises a secondhandle 69 a for easy removal from and reattachment to handle 6.

Optionally, handle 6 is equipped with a remote switch that operates theclaimed device (not shown). Remote switch may be controlled, forexample, by a radio frequency and/or an infra-red signal. Inclusion of aremote switch is beneficial because it eliminates the need for wiresand/or electric connectors, and thus allows for easy removal and/oradjustment of handle. Additionally, safety in use is improved by theelimination of high voltage electricity routing through the operatinghandle 6.

Optionally, handle 6 is operably connected to wheel sets 11, 12 or liftmechanism 40 described above so that an operator of the claimed machinecontrols both the height of the handle and also the retraction andextension of the wheel sets or lift mechanism.

In an example, the device is equipped with an electric box 50 thathouses all or some of the electrical components of the device.Preferably, electric box is sealed to protect electrical components andto keep dust and water out of the box promoting operating safety.Containment of all electrical components from the environment in asingle electric box allows for easy access and repair or replacement ofelectrical components.

Because the preferred configuration of the cleaning device of thepresent invention has a waste container 7 located between housing 20 andtransport wheels 11, the first agitator 1 is free and capable ofreaching the edges of the surface to be cleaned, that is, up to a wall.Moreover, opening 10 of waste container 7 is positioned to maximize thevolume of the soil and debris that can be contained during operation.

The device of the present invention may be used to clean a variety ofsurfaces, including indoor, outdoor, textured, non-textured, horizontal,vertical, and sloped. In comparison to the traditional machines in theprior art, the device is particularly advantageous on coarse surfaces.The surface being cleaned 100 may be made of any type of material, suchas but not limited to carpet, concrete, pavement, asphalt, grass, wood,rubber, vinyl, stone, grouted tile, brick, or any combination thereof.The device is not limited to cleaning floors. For example, it may beused to clean escalators and conveyor belts. In an example, the cleaningdevice may optionally be suspended above the surface to be cleaned, suchas where the device is used to clean a conveyor belt. In such anexample, the device may remain stationary, being suspended over theconveyor belt, while the conveyor belt is activated to move under theagitators such that the rotating arcuate surface of the agitators 1, 2,3 contacts the surface 100 of the conveyor belt as the conveyor beltmoves under the device to clean the surface. In an alternate example,the cleaning device may be operated on a stationary surface such as aconveyor belt.

The versatility of the device of the present invention derives from thecombination of three agitators, which, for example, scrub, remove debrisfrom, and buff the surface to be cleaned.

Various perspective views of the device are shown in FIGS. 8-11.

In another embodiment, the method of using the cleaning device of thepresent invention for removing debris from a surface comprises the stepsof adjusting at least one of the first and second wheels 11, 12 to aretracted position, and placing and suspending the cleaning device overthe surface to be cleaned 100 so that agitators 1, 2, 3 move debris in adirection substantially away from the surface, as shown in FIG. 1. Themethod of use contemplates use of the device wherein the device isplaced on the surface to be cleaned 100 and/or wherein the device issuspended over the surface to be cleaned 100, as where the surface to becleaned is, for example, a conveyor belt such that the cleaning deviceis moved along a length of the conveyor belt surface to be cleaned sothat the arcuate surface areas of agitators 1, 2, 3 come into contactwith the surface to be cleaned 100 as agitators 1, 2, 3 rotate.

In another embodiment, the method of using the cleaning device of thepresent invention for removing debris from a surface comprises the stepsof adjusting at least one of wheels 11, 12 to a retracted position,starting power source 4, maintaining the device in a substantiallystationary position, and engaging the surface to be cleaned in adirection that is substantially away from surface to be cleaned 100. Inexamples of methods of use, retraction of wheels 11, 12, starting powersource 4, and maintaining the device in a substantially stationaryposition may be carried out in any order, or simultaneously. The methodof use contemplates use of the device wherein the device is suspendedabove the surface to be cleaned 100, as where the surface to be cleanedis, for example, a conveyor belt such that the conveyor belt isactivated to move under the activated stationary cleaning device so thatarcuate surface areas of agitators 1, 2, 3 come into contact with thesurface to be cleaned 100 as agitators 1, 2, 3 rotate.

EXAMPLES

In one example, the agitators 1, 2, 3 are brushes having bristles. Thirdagitator-brush 3 has shorter bristles than second agitator brush 2, theworking brush. Preferably, the circumference speed of thirdagitator-brush 3 is faster than that of second agitator-brush 2. Thespeed of the agitator-brushes will vary depending upon intended use ofthe device. For a standard indoor application, the optimum speed offirst and second agitator brushes 1, 2 each having a diameter of about110 mm, is about 350-550 RPM, and most preferably about 450 rpm, withthird agitator-brush 3 rotating at a speed that is preferably more thanabout 10% faster than that of first and second agitator-brushes 1, 2,although it should be noted that the RPM at which an agitator rotates isrelative to the diameter of the agitator. In an example of anembodiment, third agitator 3 rotates at a speed inversely proportionalto first and second agitators 1, 2 as a proportion of the diameter ofagitators 1, 2 to that of agitator 3.

In one preferred example, the bristles of third agitator 3 are selectedto have a length that permits contact or near contact with the bristlesof the other agitators, such that third agitator 3 preferably contactsor nearly contacts second agitator 2. In this embodiment, waste recoveryis optimum when the clearance between second and third agitators 2, 3 isnegligible.

In practice, as an example, the device is used over the surface of acarpet or a hard surface to agitate and/or expel a debris-laden cleaningsolution or a powder that has either previously or simultaneously beenapplied to accomplish chemical and/or mechanical cleaning. The cleaningsolution can be any dry or wet conventional chemical solution suitablefor the purpose of cleaning. The surface can be an indoor floor, such astile, stone, wood, or ceramic. In another example of an embodiment ofthe present invention, the device is used on exterior surfaces, such asconcrete, asphalt or pavement, or surfaces having varying topography,such as smooth, uneven or corrugated surfaces, for example, anescalator. The agitators and their diameters are adjusted toadvantageously suit the desired surface. In another example, the deviceis used in conjunction with a street cleaner.

A prototype device in which the agitators were brushes was constructed.A trial was conducted using the following brush diameters and rotationalspeeds: Brush No. Brush diameter Brush speed First 110 mm 460 rpm Second110 mm 460 rpm Third  80 mm 650 rpmThe prototype used two toothed belts 23 and 24, above. First and thirdagitators 1, 3 operated from the same drive gear 21 to eliminate theneed for an additional transmission. Belt tensioners are not needed ifan eccentrically positioned bearing housing which houses the gear idleris used on both sides of the housing. This saves weight and costs.

The trial demonstrated the device's effectiveness for picking-up varioussolid and liquid wastes. It collected washers, nails, sand, cigaretteashes, soil, and liquid, and deposited the debris into the container.

While the foregoing has been set forth in considerable detail, it is tobe understood that the drawings and detailed embodiments are presentedfor elucidation and not limitation. Design variations, especially inmatters of shape, size, and arrangements of parts, may be made but arewithin the principles of the invention. Those skilled in the art willrealize that such changes or modifications of the invention orcombinations of elements, variations, equivalents, or improvementstherein are still within the scope of the invention as defined in theappended claims.

1. A device for removing soils or debris from a surface, comprising: a.a housing; b. at least one first agitator mounted on said housing; c. asecond cylindrical agitator rotatably mounted on said housing and havingan arcuate surface area; and d. a third cylindrical agitator rotatablymounted on said housing that is interposed between said first and secondagitators, said third agitator having an arcuate surface area, saidsecond and third agitators rotating in opposing directions, wherein saidsecond and third agitators are positioned in a substantially closeproximity to each other.
 2. A device as set forth in claim 1 whereinsaid first agitator is cylindrical and has an arcuate surface area, saidfirst and second agitators rotating in opposing directions and saidfirst and third agitators rotating in the same direction.
 3. A device asset forth in claim 1 wherein said first agitator is at least one rotaryagitator.
 4. A device as set forth in claim 1 wherein a surface of saidfirst agitator and said arcuate surfaces of each of said second andthird agitators are operable to contact said surface.
 5. A device as setforth in claim 2 wherein said arcuate surfaces of each of said first,second, and third agitators are operable to contact said surface.
 6. Adevice as set forth in claim 2 wherein said rotation of said firstagitator is counterclockwise and said rotation of said second agitatoris clockwise.
 7. A device as set forth in claim 1 further comprising apower source mounted on said housing or remotely attached to said devicethrough a drive shaft, said source being operatably connected to saidagitator for imparting rotation to said agitators.
 8. A device as setforth in claim 7 further comprising at least two drive gears.
 9. Adevice as set forth in claim 1 further comprising a container forcollecting material transported by said agitators.
 10. A device as setforth in claim 9 wherein said container has an adjustable closeable lidfor prevention of recovery of debris and cleaning solutions orcompounds.
 11. A device as set forth in claim 9 wherein said containerhas a mouth for use in combination with a suction means.
 12. A device asset forth in claim 11 wherein said suction means is a vacuum.
 13. Adevice as set forth in claim 1 wherein said agitators are at least oneof: (a) cylindrical brushes; (b) cylindrical rollers; (c)bristled-rollers; (d) rotary agitators; or (e) any combination thereof.14. A device as set forth in claim 1 further comprising a shroud, saidshroud being positioned substantially above or just above said agitatorsand having at least one recess to accept a portion of at least one ofsaid agitators.
 15. A device as set forth in claim 14 wherein a portionof said shroud protrudes beyond said first agitator in a first directionhorizontal to a horizontal plane of said surface to be cleaned.
 16. Adevice as set forth in claim 14 wherein said shroud is unitary or iscomprised of more than one piece.
 17. A device as set forth in claim 1wherein said third agitator rotates at a speed greater than that of saidfirst and second agitators.
 18. A device as set forth in claim 1 whereinsaid first and said second agitators rotate at speeds of about 1.5 to5.5 meters per second.
 19. A device as set forth in claim 1 wherein saidthird agitator rotates at a speed of about 1.7 to about 7 meters persecond.
 20. A device as set forth in claim 1 further comprising firstand second wheels, said first wheel being removably positioned betweensaid first and third agitators on said housing and said second wheelbeing removably positioned on said housing by said second agitator andopposite said third agitator.
 21. A device as set forth in claim 1 or 20further comprising a lift mechanism comprising at least two retractablesupport bars positioned parallel to a horizontal plane of said deviceand that contact said surface when said mechanism is fully extended tolift said agitators substantially off of said surface.
 22. A device asset forth in claim 20 wherein said first and second wheels are eachcomprised of a set of wheels or legs.
 23. A device as set forth in claim20 wherein at least one of said first and second wheels is retractable.24. A device as set forth in claim 1 further comprising a handle or adispenser, said handle or said dispenser being mounted on said housing,said dispenser being capable of dispensing cleaning chemicals orcompounds.
 25. A device as set forth in claim 24 wherein said handle isadjustable and comprises at least one telescoping member having firstand second ends.
 26. A device as set forth in claim 1 wherein saidsurface is: (a) substantially horizontal; (b) substantially vertical;(c) sloped; (d) substantially textured; (e) substantially smooth; (f) orany combination thereof.
 27. A device as set forth in claim 1 whereinsaid surface comprises at least one of: (a) carpet; (b) floor; (c) floorcoverings; (d) concrete; (e) pavement; (f) asphalt; (g) rubber; (h)wood; (i) vinyl; (j) brick; (k) stone; (m) grouted tile; (n) a conveyor;(o) an escalator; (p) or a combination thereof.
 28. A device as setforth in claim 1 wherein said device is positioned on or suspended abovesaid surface to be cleaned.
 29. A device as set forth in claim 1 whereinsaid third agitator has a diameter smaller than, larger than, orsubstantially the same as a diameter of said first and second agitators.30. A method of using a device as claimed in claim 20 or claim 21 forremoving debris from a surface, comprising the following steps: a.adjusting at least one of said first and second wheels and/or said liftmechanism to a retracted position; and b. placing or suspending saiddevice on or over said surface, said agitators moving said debris in adirection substantially away from said surface, wherein steps a and bcan be performed simultaneously or sequentially in any order.
 31. Amethod of using a device as claimed in claim 20 or claim 21 for removingdebris from a surface, comprising the following steps: a. adjusting atleast one of said first and second wheels and/or said lift mechanism toa retracted position; b. maintaining said device in a substantiallystationary position; and c. engaging said surface to move in adirection, said agitators moving said debris in a directionsubstantially away from said surface, wherein steps a, b, and c can beperformed simultaneously or sequentially in any order.